Hole size/thread for harmonic balancer on a 2000 lx470

[LBridges]

Everything I read implies that an 8mm 1.25 thread bolt is what it takes to use a DIY tool and/or puller on the harmonic balancer.

But I can't get the bolts to start. The bolt seems to big.

Is this a case of operator error (GET BACK OUT THERE AND JUST DO IT), or did Lexus decide to use some other random thread sizes?

 

[ScubaJon]

I just removed it on my 2000 LC last weekend and I also thought it was not the correct bolt. I took just the bolt and tried to start it and it fit fine but did have to be at exactly 90Deg from the ballancer to start its a very tight fit and there did not seem to be any kind of bevel to help start it.

I would say give it another shot.

 

[LBridges]

thanks!

 

[aljollano]

Yes. I had to seat on the floor to get my body inside the engine compartment and get the bolt completely straight.

 

[LBridges]

Ok, so I broke out an 8mm 1.25 tap and cleaned out some rust or whatnot and got the bolts to start.

Won this battle, but the war rages on...

I have a tool for 65mm spread between the bolts to hold the pulley while removing the center retaining nut. But it doesn't fit. By eyeballing it using a 150mm steel ruler I'd say my bolts appear to be about 72mm apart, meaning I would have to build or buy another tool (unless of course someone is kind enough to point out my failure to understand - as above).

 

[Nick T]

LBridges,
Can you post a picture of your tool/problem? I have a Schley 64300 toyota/lexus puller and the hole is only 2 1/4 inches. That's less then 60mm
Honestly though, I remove the bolt with an impact gun and only use the schley to torque on installation.

 

[ScubaJon]

go to a big box auto parts store they rent them for free or at least alot of them do.

I made a tool and the holes are 60 62 or 65mm apart and I think its 60

 

[LBridges]

LBridges,
Can you post a picture of your tool/problem? I have a Schley 64300 toyota/lexus puller and the hole is only 2 1/4 inches. That's less then 60mm
Honestly though, I remove the bolt with an impact gun and only use the schley to torque on installation.

My tool is the Schley 64300, but it is set up for 65mm center-to-center bolt spacing, and mine clearly exceeds that distance.

go to a big box auto parts store they rent them for free or at least alot of them do.

I made a tool and the holes are 60 62 or 65mm apart and I think its 60

I may make a tool as well - I am 100% certain my holes are farther apart. Don't have a caliper for the size, but my eyeball looking at a steel machinist ruler results in a center-to-center bolt spread of about 72mm. Before making a tool, I will see if my local Autozone or Advance Auto has a rental of the kind that looks like an adjustable "Y"

 

[2001LC]

If your trying to remove harmonic balancer (HB) retaining bolt. I'd use a chain wrench to hold HB. By first wrapping old timing or serpentine belt around balancer to protect it. Learned this trick from Lexus mechanic when trying to remove a beast of a HB bolt off a Lexus IS300. He also told me to use a long 3/4" beaker bar. He explained any flex in breaker bar and I'd loose leverage, so bolt will not give.

Harbor freight a good source for chain wrench, 3/4 breaker bar & sockets. You'll probably be fine with 1/2" Breaker bar on our 100's.

Tip: Apply marine grease to crank shaft when assembling. Makes pulling off easier next time.

 

[LBridges]

If your trying to remove harmonic balancer (HB) retaining bolt. I'd use a chain wrench to hold HB. By first wrapping old timing or serpentine belt around balancer to protect it. Learned this trick from Lexus mechanic when trying to remove a beast of a HB bolt off a Lexus IS300. He also told me to use a long 3/4" beaker bar. He explained any flex in breaker bar and I'd loose leverage, so bolt will not give.

Harbor freight a good source for chain wrench, 3/4 breaker bar & sockets. You'll probably be fine with 1/2" Breaker bar on our 100's.

Tip: Apply marine grease to crank shaft when assembling. Makes pulling off easier next time.

Thanks for the tip, and yes, that's what I'm trying to do. I have never used a chain wrench so while I'm generally willing to learn new stuff, not sure removing the balancer is where I want to start (call me chicken, but...). I just see the wrench flying off and somehow setting the neighbors house on fire (given the way I usually wrench that is).

 

[2001LC]

Thanks for the tip, and yes, that's what I'm trying to do. I have never used a chain wrench so while I'm generally willing to learn new stuff, not sure removing the balancer is where I want to start (call me chicken, but...). I just see the wrench flying off and somehow setting the neighbors house on fire (given the way I usually wrench that is).

My fist time I made my own SST tool, worked, but a pain to build and use.

I was very leery of using a chain wrench until I tried it. Really this is the easiest & cheapest way, just remember to protect the belt grove of HB with old belt. You'll kick yourself and say why didn't I try this first.

My chain wrench does not fly.. LOL
It has a 2' long breaker bar with a 3/8" width chain (3/4" width if you include holding pins) $10 IIRC.

Impact wrench will spin it right off without holding as our 100 aren't that bad (tight) usually. Just need to pull radiator to get enough room for most impact wrenches, or use with a universal but that can be tricky. But this is extra work and/or $$.

The Lexus IS300 is so much harder than our 100, hard to believe on a 6 cylinder but it is. Some IS300 guys use the starter, by bracing the beaker bar on frame or floor, the turn the key. That is one I'm too chicken to try, but the IS300 guys do it all the time. Even impact wrench will not work without chain wrench and the SST tool just bends on these IS300's.

Try the chain wrench, you'll thank me. If it doesn't work take it back, but I'll bet you'll find many uses of this new toy.

Tip: The larger and longer the breaker bar the easier the job.

 

[LBridges]

thanks, I will go look for one at the stores today

 

[LBridges]

Somebody should drive over and try to knock some common sense into my head.

Just realized two bolt holes are the "correct" 65mm center-to-center spread. Dummy me never thought to try the other two after seeing the first two had wider spacing.

Live and learn I guess, I just wish I didn't have to "learn" so much all the time.